To Whom It May Concern:

Ban the discredited and unscientific practice of "conversion therapy."  Research has clearly demonstrated that both sexual orientation and gender identity are innate and cannot be changed.  Major professional associations, such as the AMA, APA, ASA AAP, oppose "conversion therapy." Even the UN considers this practice a human rights violation.

•  This guidance will protect youth from "conversion therapy," a dangerous and discredited practice aimed at changing their sexual orientation or gender identity.

•  These dangerous and discredited practices are based on the false claim that being lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ) is a "mental illness" that needs to be cured – a view with no scientific basis.

•  This guidance protects young people from state-licensed therapists in Virginia who falsely claim to parents and youth that being LGBTQ is a "mental illness," and therefore taking advantage of parents and harming vulnerable youth.

•  These harmful practices use rejection, shame, and psychological abuse to force young people to try and change who they are.

•  These practices are known to be extremely dangerous and can lead to depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse, and suicide attempts.

•  No person should ever be shamed by a mental health professional into thinking that who they are is wrong. Mental health professionals should provide care that is ethical and affirming for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning people.

•  We can't allow one more person to be targeted and hurt by these dangerous and discredited practices. 

Thank you.